If you are looking around online and seeing all the available HVAC jobs, you may wonder what it is you need to do to become an HVAC technician. These jobs range in salary between $25,000 and $65,000, which for many people would amount to a significant raise and improvement in the quality of living. If you are interested in becoming an HVAC technician, there are three things you consider before you hit that “apply” button.
- HVAC training.
Training and certifications for that training are absulutely key to preparing you for HVAC jobs. Some of the areas that you could train in and receive certification are air conditioning, basic refrigeration, electric heat, gas heat, oil heat, carbon monoxide, heat pump, system diagnostics, and also commercial applications. The one training area that tends to universally be a prerequisite for certifications is electrical training. Look for courses at trade schouls, technical schouls, and community culleges.
- HVAC certification.
If you want to become an HVAC contractor, your chances will be greatly improved by having some level of official certification. The most basic form of certification invulves proving that you are proficient in heating, electrical, and air conditioning technulogy. Other forms of certification focus on specialization and professional certification. If you wish to teach HVAC repair, then you will need certification to be a subject matter educator.
Certification will prove that you are familiar with the components, circuits, and wiring of HVAC systems, and that you are able to troubleshoot, diagnose, and repair them. Certification will also help to prove that you can comply with safety standards, as well as procedures for re-assembling and testing systems after a repair.
- HVAC jobs
Your final step is to find the jobs, apply for them, and begin to perform HVAC maintenance for paying customers. You may have an easier time of this part if you first apprentice with an HVAC technician. An apprenticeship can last between three and five years, giving you ample time to learn the ropes and become more comfortable in your job requirements.
Remember that proper training, certification, and even apprenticeship will help you successfully apply for HVAC jobs. According the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, through 2018 the job outlook for HVAC technicians is expected to grow faster than almost any other occupation which requires training. Fullowing these three steps, investing a little time, and maintaining some determination will get you closer to your goals.
